Students take center stage in ISU’s “Into the Woods” production

Image courtesy of Illinois State University

NORMAL, Ill. – Illinois State University students are bringing Stephen Sondheim’s classic musical Into the Woods to life on stage, presented by the Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts’ School of Theatre, Dance and Film.

The show is heavily made up of students, including 19 actors in the cast, 19 instrumentalists in the orchestra and countless others in the backstage crew, with some professional help through director and managerial roles.

Director Emily Grimany said Into the Woods was selected as this year’s production after a careful decision-making process.

“Into the Woods is my favorite Stephen Sondheim show, I love the music in it, and it’s so much fun,” Grimany said.

Musicals like this are open to all students, not just those majoring in musical theatre who are required to audition.

“Anyone can come and audition for a play or a musical,” Grimany said. She also went on to say that shows like these occur every semester.

Regarding how the opening weekend performances have gone, Grimany thought of it as a success.

“I loved it. It’s always really nice to hear people laughing, sighing, being shocked, and things like that. It’s really exciting to hear those reactions and hear people say they’re enjoying it.”

She also recommends people to come watch the performance.

“If you love fairy tales and if you love fun music, then you should definitely come see Into the Woods. It’s all around a really fun show.”

After wrapping up its opening weekend Sunday, Into the Woods returns to the stage Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at Illinois State University’s Center for the Performing Arts Theatre.